Pets suffer from infections no less than their owners. Therefore, you need to be prepared, and if the cat’s condition suddenly worsens, have an idea of what medications may be useful. One of these helpers can be Cycloferon. Let's learn more about its composition, contraindications, pharmacological properties and how this medicine should be used. Below are instructions for using the drug Cycloferon for cats, let's look at it in more detail.
What's in Cycloferon?
The main active component of this drug is acridoneacetic acid, and the excipients are methylcellulose and calcium stearate.
Cycloferon for cats is produced in three forms: in tablet form (brown pills), in the form of liniment (yellow ointment), and also in the form of a colorless solution for injection (2 ml ampoules). It is used as an immunomodulatory and antiviral agent. Cycloferon is a high-molecular inducer of the formation of endogenous interferon.
Once in the cat’s blood, the components of the drug become biologically active. Cycloferon has antitumor and antiproliferative properties. Cycloferon for cats helps cope with the anti-inflammatory effect. After the injection, the number of interferons in tissues with lymphoid elements (spleen, lungs, liver) increases noticeably.
This remedy for cats also activates bone marrow stem cells. Granulocytes begin to be rapidly produced.
Under the influence of the medicine, the status of the immune system is noticeably corrected, which has received a powerful incentive to mobilize internal resources to fight foreign harmful bacteria. Cycloferon has a beneficial effect on normalizing metabolism.
It is found on pharmacy shelves in the form of an ointment and is intended for external use. Cycloferon promotes the regeneration of mucous membranes and damaged upper tissues . It is also possible to use Cycloferon for viral diseases of pets.
The peak concentration of Cycloferon in the cat’s blood is observed two to four hours after the injection or taking the tablet. A significant part of the drug is excreted from the body in four to five hours along with urine; if the dosage is observed, it practically does not accumulate in the body. High biological activity is well complemented by its low toxicity.
General description of Cycloferon
The drug is a fast-acting interferon inducer, that is, it forces the patient’s body to more actively produce a protective protein designed to destroy the infection. The result is an antiviral and anti-inflammatory effect. The main substance in Cycloferon is meglumine acridone acetate, which is a derivative of acridone acetic acid. It has been used in veterinary medicine since 1993 (the drug began to be used for treating humans much later).
The manufacturer of the drug is NTFF Polisan. For the development of Cycloferon in 2004, the pharmaceutical company received an award from the Government of the Russian Federation. In 2021, the antiviral drug won the title “Product of the Year” in the category “Immunostimulants” and was recognized as the best by the jury of the RUSSIAN PHARMA AWARDS in the category “The most prescribed drug for the treatment of influenza and acute respiratory viral infections.”
Tablet form
Cycloferon tablets are round, biconvex, yellow. The dosage of meglumine acridone acetate is 150 mg. The following are added as excipients:
- povidone;
- calcium stearate;
- hypromellose;
- polysorbate;
- propylene glycol.
In pharmacies it is sold in cardboard boxes, inside of which there are from 1 to 5 blisters with 10 or 20 tablets. Price per box of 20 pcs. — from 370 rub. The tableted drug should be stored at a temperature not exceeding 25 ºC. Shelf life: 24 months from the date indicated on the package.
You can buy Cycloferon at any pharmacy - the medicine is sold without a doctor's prescription
Injection
Another form of Cycloferon is a clear solution for intravenous and intramuscular administration. The active substance in 1 ml of the product is 125 mg (12.5%). The drug is bottled in white or yellow glass bottles. One ampoule contains 2 ml of solution.
The shelf life of the drug is 5 years from the date of production. Unopened ampoules should be stored at a temperature from 0 to 25 ºС. Once opened, the solution should be used immediately. Unused solution from an open bottle must be discarded. The price of the medicine is from 330 rubles. for 5 ampoules.
Cycloferon solution is sold in cardboard packages of 5 ampoules
Liniment
Cycloferon in the form of liniment is intended only for external use in the treatment of infections that affect the skin. It is a liquid ointment that quickly melts under the influence of body heat and is absorbed into the pores. 1 ml of Cycloferon liniment contains 50 mg of meglumine acridone acetate (5%). Excipients in the composition:
- benzalkonium chloride;
- propylene glycol.
Packaged in a 30 ml aluminum tube with a screw cap. The tube is additionally placed in a cardboard box. The price of the product is from 135 rubles. Store the drug in a place protected from light at a temperature of 15–25 ºС.
The drug for external use can be stored for 2 years from the date of production at room temperature
Under what conditions should the drug not be used?
The instructions for this product indicate cases when it is better to avoid using the drug. This is the cat’s excessive sensitivity to the main active ingredient and significant weight loss or a general depressed state of the animal. Cycloferon is also prescribed with caution for cats if allergic manifestations have previously been observed in animals.
This is due to the fact that one of the side effects is allergic reactions. However, this happens quite rarely in cats.
If such manifestations are nevertheless detected, you should immediately inform your veterinarian and replace Cycloferon with another drug. Also, cat owners should remember that with pronounced viremia, four to eight hours after the injection, the animals may develop a fever, and in rare cases, violet fluorescence may be observed in the urine. Therefore, you should give Cycloferon to your cat carefully, strictly following the instructions.
In what cases is the drug prescribed to cats?
The basis for treating animals with Cycloferon are identified viral enteritis and hepatitis, carnivore distemper, laryngotracheitis, manifestations of influenza and acute respiratory infections. This medicine is also prescribed for cats if rhinotracheitis, panleukopenia, calcivirosis, and chlamydia are detected in the animal.
The ointment is recommended in cases of injury to the animal or after surgical operations in cats. It helps stop inflammatory processes and has a regenerating effect on the cat’s body. It is also used in the treatment of demodicosis, the occurrence of fungus and the appearance of neoplasms.
Cycloferon for cats interacts well with other symptomatic medications . When used with interferon or antibiotics, this drug can significantly enhance their effect.
Cycloferon can be administered subcutaneously or intramuscularly to cats. If the pet has an acute phase of the disease, the cat is prescribed to inject Cycloferon intravenously, it is combined with serums, globulins and interferon.
For cats, the dosage of Cycloferon varies, depending on the weight of the pet.:
- 0.80 ml of solution is taken per 1 kg of weight;
- for 1-2 kg - 0.40 ml;
- for 2-5 kg - 0.20 ml;
- for 6-12 kg - 0.15 ml;
- for 13-25 kg - 0.12 ml;
- 26-40 kg - 0.10 ml;
- more than 40 kg - 0.08 ml.
Before using the medicine, you must carefully read the instructions, paying attention to how the drug should be used for kittens, as well as how much Cycloferon tablet contains the active substance.
Cycloferon may have side effects. It happens that the animal’s body temperature rises, and with a significant concentration of harmful viruses in the blood, purple fluorescence may appear in the urine.
In this article I will talk about a drug for treating animals - cycloferon. I will describe the principle of action of the medicine for cats and dogs, and list the components included in the composition. I will consider the instructions for use and possible contraindications. I will list analogues of cycloferon and give the cost of the medicine.
Reviews from pet owners and doctors
Cycloferon is effectively used in the complex therapy of corono-, parva-, and adenovirus infections of dogs and cats. Well tolerated. For 20 years I have not observed a single complication. An adult dog can safely be given up to 250–300 mg per 30 kg. Cats: 25–50 mg per 3–5 kg.
A two-year-old vaccinated cat lived in our house. But they brought a second kitten, and he had calcivirus, which he infected the older pet with. We were prescribed treatment with several medications: Vitafel (1 dose, 1 day), Suprastin (0.2 ml, 1 day), Cefazolin (1 ml for 6 days), B12 (1 ml, 4 days) and Cycloferon injections (1 ml, course 10 days). The ulcers were smeared with Cycloferon, but in the form of an ointment. All cats recovered without consequences, and after 2 weeks they were already healthy.
I work in a nursery. Our virus spread to adult cats and a little bit to kittens. The disease developed in the same way for everyone: an inflamed eye, runny nose, cough. The treatment regimen for viral infections is the same: antiviral drugs, immunostimulants, complex vitamin and mineral preparations, antibiotics, symptomatic if necessary, and drugs to restore microflora. Cycloferon was chosen as an immunostimulant. Affordable and good drug. Very effective when administered intravenously. They gave it at an approximate rate of 0.2 per kg of weight. They placed them intermittently: only on days 1, 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 of the course. All cats tolerated the drug well.
Cycloferon is a universal drug that, by enhancing immune defense, accelerates the death of viruses. Additionally, it also has an anti-inflammatory effect. It is considered safe for treating cats, as it very rarely causes side effects and has a minimal number of contraindications. For convenience, it is available in three forms - tablets, solutions, ointments. The main thing is to follow all instructions from the instructions for use.
Composition and release form
It is available in three forms:
- Light yellow round tablets of 10, 20 or 50 pieces per package. One tablet contains 150 mg of meglumine acridone acetate, 23.21 mg of methacrylic acid, 7.93 mg of povidone, 2.73 mg of hypromellose, 0.27 polysorbate 80, 1.79 propylene glycol, 3.07 mg of calcium stearate.
- Solution for intramuscular administration. Available in ampoules, 2 ml each. The package contains 5 ampoules with instructions. The solution is transparent, yellow. Contains 125 mg/1ml meglumine acridone acetate and water for injection.
- Liniment or liquid yellow ointment for external use has a specific odor. Contains 50 mg of meglumine acridone acetate per 1 ml. Excipients: 0.1 mg benzalkonium chloride and propylene glycol. The tube contains 5 or 30 ml of liniment.
Cycloferon for animals is produced in three forms: in tablet form, in the form of liniment, and also in the form of a colorless solution for injection.
Duration and storage rules
The solution is stored at a temperature no higher than 25 degrees and no lower than 0 degrees (for ointment, the minimum permissible storage temperature is 10 degrees). Tablets and liniment retain their medicinal properties for 2 years, solution in ampoules - 3 years.
The drug is stored in a dark place, protected from pets and small children.
It is recommended to store the tablets out of the reach of children in a cool, dark place.
Indications for use and mechanism of action
The main effect of cycloferon is to stimulate the production of interferon in the body. The medicine relieves inflammation well and improves the animal’s well-being. Cycloferon stimulates the animal’s immune system and normalizes metabolism.
The drug is used as an immunomodulatory, antiviral agent
- calcivirosis;
- acute respiratory infections, including influenza, laryngotracheitis, rhinitis, etc.;
- papillomatosis;
- chlamydia;
- panleukopenia (feline distemper);
- viral diseases of the digestive system (hepatitis, enteritis, etc.).
Instructions for use of the drug cycloferon
Injections of cycloferon give the most powerful effect. A medium-sized animal (from 3 to 5.5 kg) is administered 1 ml of the drug intramuscularly or subcutaneously according to the following scheme: 1, 2, 4, 6, 8 (the first two days in a row, then every other day).
Before use, be sure to read the instructions
If necessary, treatment can be continued and another 5 injections can be given, the break between injections is 1 day. If the pet weighs less than 3 kg, he is given 0.5 ml of solution.
Cats are given half the tablets once a day, for 7-10 days. The ointment is applied to problem areas in the morning and evening for 5 days.
Cycloferon is given to dogs according to the same scheme, but the dosage is calculated slightly differently: 0.1 ml per kilogram of body weight.
Features of treatment with Cycloferon for cats
Complete treatment with an antiviral drug is at least 10 days. The veterinarian can extend the course to 15–20 days. You need to give injections and tablets to your cat according to a certain scheme:
- for the first 2 days, drink/inject daily;
- from the 3rd to the 8th day - every other day;
- from the 8th day of the course - once every three days.
It is possible to interrupt the course of Cycloferon ahead of schedule only with the permission of the doctor - after examination and tests confirm that the cat is completely free from infection and inflammation. The dosage depends on the weight of the animal.
Veterinarians recommend choosing the option with a solution for cats, since in this form it is easier to calculate the dose. If it is not possible to give injections, then give the animal tablets: either after mixing them with food, or dissolving them in a small amount of warm water and pouring them into the mouth using a pipette.
Price and analogues
The cost of Cycloferon is quite high. Tablets have the following average price: 10 pcs. – 180-210 rub., 20 pcs. – 350-410 rub., 50 pcs. – 800-900 rub. 5 ampoules per package cost from 350 to 400 rubles. The price of the ointment also depends on the volume of the drug: 5 ml – 120-150 rubles, 30 ml – 400-450 rubles.
There are other drugs for cats that have a similar effect to cycloferon, but they are not its complete analogues:
- Roncoleukin is a very powerful immunostimulant in the form of a solution. Used for diseases caused by fungi, viruses, bacteria. Administered intravenously.
- Fosprenil - used to treat viral diseases. The drug is available in the form of a solution, stimulates the immune system, and increases the body's resistance to infection. Fosprenil is injected subcutaneously, into a muscle, into a vein, and sometimes it is taken orally.
- Neoferon - available in tablets and solution. It has a beneficial effect on the growth of intestinal microflora, relieves inflammation, and stimulates the cat’s immune system.
- Kinoron is a white powder. It is dissolved in distilled water or saline and injected subcutaneously or into the muscle. Kinoron stimulates the immune system and increases the body's resistance to viruses.
- Gamaprene – designed to speed up the recovery of cats. Available in the form of a yellowish transparent liquid. The product is administered to animals orally.
- Gala-vet is available in powder form, which is diluted in water for injection and injected into the muscle. The drug stimulates the immune system and increases the activity of leukocytes.
It is better to consult a veterinarian before use. He will assess the animal’s condition and prescribe a suitable treatment regimen.
Many pets are exposed to viral diseases. It is necessary to take into account that the pet’s condition may worsen. In order to provide timely assistance to a sick pet, it is necessary to have an effective drug in your home veterinary medicine cabinet - Cycloferon for cats. To use the medicine correctly, you need to know the principle of its effect on the animal’s body, contraindications and dosage.
The main active component of the drug is acridone acetic acid. The drug contains the following substances as additional components:
This drug belongs to the category of immunomodulatory agents with antiviral effects. Cycloferon serves for the rapid formation of interferon. The drug exhibits bioactivity in the body of cats and has anti-inflammatory, antiproliferative and antitumor effects on the body. Cycloferon is an inducer of the formation of endogenous interferons in lymphoid organs (spleen, lungs, tonsils, etc.). Cycloferon also affects the bone marrow: under its influence, the production of granulocytes is significantly activated.
Thus, this drug mobilizes the body's defenses and ensures the proper level of metabolism to fight infection.
In veterinary pharmacies, Cycloferon for cats is presented in three forms:
- liniment 5% – is a yellowish substance enclosed in a tube;
- solution - distributed in glass ampoules with a volume of 2 ml. 1 ml contains 125 mg of active substance;
- tablets are small in size and brown in color.
Gel (ointment) is intended for topical use.
According to the instructions for this product, the use of this drug is contraindicated in case of individual intolerance to the components of the product and in a state of exhaustion of the animal.
Side effects are quite rare and represent allergic manifestations.
If such a reaction occurs in your pet, you should stop taking the medication and consult a veterinarian.
You cannot ignore the warning of specialists about an increase in the cat’s temperature with pronounced viremia. This effect can be observed only after 5-8 hours after an injection, taking a tablet or smearing with gel.
Sometimes, after administration of the drug, fluorescence (glow) of urine is observed in a purple color.
The drug is used for the spread of viral hepatitis or enteritis, canine distemper, influenza, laryngotracheitis, and respiratory ailments. It is also used for diseases of cats and cats with panleukopenia, chlamydia, rhinotracheitis, and calcivirosis.
The solution of Cycloferon and its tablets are perfectly combined with other symptomatic drugs. By combining the drug with antibiotics, interferon and other similar substances, their effects can be prolonged and greatly enhanced.
For pets, the solution is prescribed intramuscularly or under the skin. In particularly acute cases, it is combined with interferon, globulins, serums and injected directly into a vein.
The dosage of the medicine is carried out in accordance with the pet’s body weight. The dose for kittens and adult animals is selected according to the following scheme.
Cycloferon is a drug with antiviral and immunostimulating effects. This product can be purchased at a regular pharmacy for people. But it is also used to treat our smaller brothers. Alas, cats often suffer from viral diseases, for which this remedy is used. Cycloferon for cats helps with viral panleukopenia, herpes and respiratory infections.
Instructions for use of Cycloferon for the treatment of cats, dosage in ampoules for injections and tablets
Cats, like people, suffer from viral diseases. To avoid complications, it is necessary to begin their treatment on time by choosing an effective medicine. To make a diagnosis, you should contact a veterinarian who will prescribe the drug. Among antiviral agents, one of the most popular and effective is Cycloferon. The medicine is suitable for adult cats and kittens.
Composition, principle of action and release forms
The active component of the drug is acridoneacetic acid, a synthetic analogue of the alkaloid from Citrus grandis. This substance can activate the production of interferon in the animal’s body and stimulate the functioning of the bone marrow. Interferon is a protein whose action is aimed at destroying a viral infection. Auxiliary components of the drug:
- methylcellulose;
- povidone;
- calcium stearate;
- benzalkonium chloride;
- methacrylic acid;
- propylene glycol;
- ethyl acrylate copolymer;
- hypromellose.
Cycloferon is available in the form of tablets, injection solution and liniment. When using the tablet form, the drug begins to act 15 minutes after administration, in the case of injection - 5 minutes after the injection. Liniment is an ointment that, upon contact with the skin, liquefies and is quickly absorbed. Used for viral and fungal skin infections.
How to give tablets to kittens and adult cats?
Before use, Cycloferon for cats in tablet form must be crushed and mixed with food or warm water (in the latter case, it is recommended to use a pipette to pour the dissolved tablet into the animal’s mouth). The dosage depends on body weight.
Cats weighing 7–10 kg should be given 0.75 tablets (112 mg) per day. For cats weighing 4–6 kg, 0.5 tablets per day will be enough. Animals weighing 1–3 kg can take 0.25 pills. For the treatment of babies who weigh less than 1 kg, it is recommended to prefer injections, because...
In this form it is easier to calculate the amount of the drug.
The veterinarian should calculate the dosage. He will take into account the individual characteristics of the pet, the severity of its condition, concomitant diseases and, if necessary, adjust the treatment regimen. With properly organized therapy, the animal recovers 10–15 days after starting the drug.
Dosage of solution for injections, method of administration
Injection solution is the most preferred form of Cycloferon for cats. The drug is sold in pharmacies (in 1 package - 5 ampoules of 2 ml).
The antiviral agent should be injected intramuscularly or subcutaneously. In the first case, the solution is injected into the shoulder or thigh, in the second - into the withers area. The dosage for kittens is 0.4 ml.
Cats weighing up to 3 kg are given a one-time dose of 0.8 ml of the drug, 4–6 kg – 1 ml, 7–10 kg – 1.2 ml.
Contraindications, side effects, overdose
The instructions for use of Cycloferon state that the drug cannot be used to treat cats suffering from individual intolerance to the components of the drug, frequent allergic reactions, and diseases of the digestive system in the acute stage.
Contraindications also include a weakened state, pregnancy, and breastfeeding.
It is not advisable to administer the drug to kittens under 4 months of age, but if the potential benefit is greater than the possible harm, Cycloferon can be used after consultation with a veterinarian.
Side effects are rare. This usually happens to animals prone to allergies and manifests itself in the form of itching, redness, and rash on the skin. Sometimes nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea occur.
4–8 hours after taking the drug, your body temperature may increase. As a result of the additional stress on the kidneys, the urine may take on a purple hue.
There is no information about cases of Cycloferon overdose.
Compatibility with other drugs
At elevated body temperatures, it is possible to take antipyretic drugs together with Cycloferon. The antiviral agent can also be used during chemotherapy - it reduces the occurrence of side effects.
Cost and analogues
The price of 5 ampoules of Cycloferon injection solution is about 350 rubles. The cost of tablets depends on their quantity in the package: 50 pcs. cost 840 rub., 20 pcs. – 350 rub., 10 pcs. – 190 rub.
Other medications can be used to treat a viral infection, but if your veterinarian has prescribed this particular medication, it is best to follow his or her recommendations.
If there are contraindications or side effects, you can replace Cycloferon with a similar antiviral agent. Analogues of the drug:
- Roncoleukin. An immunostimulant whose active ingredient is interleukin-2 (a synthetic substance that can activate the body's defenses). Available in the form of an injection solution. The liquid can also be instilled into the nose and given to your pet, after mixing it with saline. Roncoleukin is used for viral infections, oncology, postoperative and post-vaccination complications. Cost – from 230 to 750 rubles. depending on dosage.
- Fosprenil. An antiviral drug, the main component of which is disodium phosphate salt of polyprenols (a substance of plant origin). Release form - a solution that can be used for injection, orally, rectally. It is used for diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, respiratory tract, herpes virus, panleukopenia. The price for a 10 ml bottle is about 210 rubles.
- Ribaflox. A dual-action drug that can destroy both viruses and bacteria. Active ingredients: enrofloxacin (antibiotic), ribavirin (antiviral component). Available in the form of an injection solution. It is used for infections of mixed etiology of the respiratory, genitourinary, and digestive systems. The cost of a bottle with a capacity of 100 ml is about 870 rubles.
In veterinary medicine, Neoferon, a prebiotic containing inulin and a phytocomplex of 13 herbs (St. John's wort, calendula, yarrow, pine buds, etc.), can be used as an adjuvant in the treatment of viral infections. The drug has an immunostimulating, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic effect. The price of the medicine is low - 10 tablets cost only 50 rubles.
Source: https://MurKoshka.ru/zdorovye/preparaty/cikloferon-dlya-koshek.html
Composition and release form
The main component of this drug is acridone acetic acid. This is an artificial analogue of a natural substance - an alkaloid from Citrus grandis. It stimulates the production of interferons and activates the bone marrow. Capable of stopping the growth of tumors.
One of the dosage forms of the drug Cycloferon is tablets.
Available in 3 dosage forms:
- Injection solution is the most commonly used. It is administered intramuscularly, is quickly absorbed, remains in the body for about a day, and is excreted mainly by the kidneys.
- Tablets (have a pinkish tint). When taken orally, maximum concentration is reached after 2-3 hours, and the half-life is 8 hours. You need to take them once a day, half an hour before meals. Cats and small kittens can be given the drug in tablets, strictly observing the dosage - if there is no vomiting. Although injections into the withers give a faster effect.
- Liniment is yellow. Used topically to treat viral infections on the skin, including fungal infections. Used to treat gum inflammation of a viral or fungal nature.
Characteristics of the drug
In 1993, cycloferon was registered as a veterinary drug. Only two years later, it began to be used to treat people. Today you can buy this medicine in regular and veterinary pharmacies.
Cycloferon has almost no side effects.
It acts gently and additionally restores mucosal cells at the site of infection by the virus (when used topically). Has a minimum of side effects. At the same time, it is quite effective. And in combination with other immunostimulants and antibiotics, it can quickly cure a cat from a viral infection and prevent complications - this is written in the instructions for use.
A large amount of the product accumulates in lymphoid tissue. It stimulates the production of granulocytes and increases the body's own defenses. The drug is non-toxic and does not cause systemic poisoning.
Indications for use
Cycloferon for cats is used in the treatment of:
- laryngotracheitis;
- flu and respiratory infections (runny nose, etc.);
- rhinotracheitis;
- calicivirus;
- panleukopenia or feline distemper;
- chlamydia (causes inflammation of the respiratory tract in cats);
- enteritis, hepatitis and other viral diseases of the digestive system.
In cats, the infection develops rapidly, sometimes the animal can die in a few days or hours. Therefore, for acute infections it is better to use the injection form of the drug. Later, to consolidate the results of treatment and support the immune system, you can switch to tablets.
Cycloferon in injection form is more effective in treating infections.
In the form of liniment, it is used for the rapid healing of wounds, postoperative sutures, demodicosis, viral skin lesions, and small tumors.
When to use this medicine
The drug is recommended for the treatment of cats diagnosed with:
- flu;
- enteritis;
- feline distemper;
- acute respiratory diseases.
Solutions are prescribed for inclusion in complex therapy of secondary immunodeficiencies that have developed against the background of acute and chronic bacterial and fungal infections, rheumatic, degenerative pathologies (arthritis, lupus, osteoarthritis, etc.).
The indication for injections is viral hepatitis. Liniment is used for herpes and chronic periodontitis. The external remedy is also prescribed as an anti-inflammatory and wound-healing medicine.
Flu in cats develops at lightning speed - if treatment with antiviral drugs is not started, the animal can die within a couple of days
Contraindications and side effects
The drug should not be used if the animal is too exhausted and weakened.
Side effects occur rarely, mainly in animals prone to allergies. It manifests itself in the form of a rash, redness and itching of the skin.
With a highly progressive infection, after the administration of cycloferon, the temperature may rise - this is a natural reaction to the activation of the immune system. In rare cases, a cat's urine may turn purple. This is due to excessive stress on the kidneys. It is better to consult a veterinarian about this.
Reviews of the drug from cat owners
Cat owners often leave reviews about this drug as an effective treatment for viral infections in cats.
Cat owners speak positively about the drug Cycloferon.
Tatiana. We didn’t have time to vaccinate the kitten, and he ended up getting calcivirus. The veterinarian did not give any prognosis, but prescribed cycloferon with the hope that it would help. The cat recovered within a few days, and after a week and a half returned to normal life. He is now one and a half years old and has no health problems. I'm glad that this drug helped save my pet's life.
Igor. I never thought that cats got colds until our Burmilla cat Ray started sneezing. They took him to the clinic, where he was diagnosed with a respiratory infection. The cat was injected with cycloferon according to the regimen prescribed by the doctor. On the second day the animal began to eat, and a week later it completely recovered.
Pets are no less susceptible to viral diseases than their owners. Therefore, you should be prepared for the fact that the animal’s condition may worsen and be aware of medications with antiviral effects. One of them is Cycloferon. Let's take a closer look at its composition, pharmacological action, contraindications and method of use for cats.
Reviews about the treatment
Veterinarians
Anton, veterinarian, 45 years old, Khabarovsk : “I often prescribe Cycloferon for adenovirus infection in dogs. Over many years of practice, I have never observed any complications. The effect is good."
Irina, veterinarian, 29 years old, Krasnoyarsk : “I work in a nursery. For viral infections in dogs we use Cycloferon. A good immunostimulating drug. Most effective in injection form. The dosage is calculated depending on the weight of the animal. There are no side effects."
Owners
Kristina, 25 years old, Krasnodar : “When our terrier got sick, the veterinarian prescribed Cycloferon injections. I didn’t dare give the injections myself, so I took the dog to the doctor. This is good, because the treatment was carried out under the supervision of a specialist. A week later the dog recovered. There were no negative consequences."
Ekaterina, 23 years old, Chita : “A dog has been living in our family for more than 10 years. As I got older I started getting sick. Recently diagnosed with papillomatosis. They prescribed injections and Cycloferon liniment. We have already finished the course of injections, but we are still using the ointment. So far I haven't noticed any improvements. But I hope that our faithful friend will recover.”
Characteristics of Cycloferon
The main active substance of the drug is acridone acetic acid. Calcium stearate and methylcellulose are auxiliary.
This antiviral drug is available in several forms: tablets, solution, liniment. The first is brown pills. The solution is available in ampoules of 2 ml, it is transparent, and 1 ml of the medicine contains 125 mg of the main substance. Liniment 5% is a yellow gel in a tube.
Cycloferon is an antiviral and immunomodulatory drug. This is a high-molecular inducer of the formation of endogenous interferon. In the body of cats, the medicine exhibits biological activity, has antitumor, antiproliferative, and anti-inflammatory effects. After its administration, a large number of interferons appear in tissues with lymphoid elements (liver, lungs, spleen). Under the influence of Cycloferon, bone marrow stem cells are activated. Granulocytes are actively produced. The drug provides a pronounced correction of the immune status, which, in turn, forces the animal’s body to mobilize its own forces to fight foreign agents. The drug normalizes metabolic processes.
Cycloferon ointment produces a local anti-inflammatory effect. It has a regenerating effect on mucous membranes, damaged and injured tissues.
After administration of the drug in the form of a solution and consumption of tablets, its maximum concentration in the blood is observed after 2-4 hours. The half-life of the drug is 4-5 hours. The drug is excreted from the body of pets by the kidneys. Its active substance does not accumulate in the animal’s body when used in recommended doses.
The high biological activity of Cycloferon is combined with its low toxicity.
Contraindications
The instructions warn about restrictions in the use of antiviral medicine. This is high sensitivity to the main active substance, severe weakening of the animal, its exhausted state. Cycloferon is used with caution for those animals that have a history of allergic reactions.
Side effects of the drug manifest themselves in the form of allergies. But, as a rule, such effects develop very rarely. If they occur, then this must be reported to the veterinarian. The instructions also warn that in case of severe viremia after administration of the drug, the temperature may increase in 4-8 hours in cats and kittens. Sometimes purple fluorescence of urine may be observed.
Analogs
Cycloferon has no complete analogues. But if necessary, veterinarians can replace it with the following drugs:
- Interferon is an antiviral and immunomodulatory agent. Available in the form of a solution for injection. The advantage of this drug compared to Cycloferon is its low cost - from 80 rubles. The medication is not available in other dosage forms.
- Fosprenil. A remedy for the treatment of viral and mixed diseases. Available in the form of a solution for injection. It has more contraindications and gives more side effects than Cycloferon. But it costs much less - about 170 rubles. per bottle 10 ml.
- Azoxyvet. A remedy for the treatment of infectious and inflammatory diseases in the form of an injection solution. It costs much less than Cycloferon - from 120 rubles. But it gives more side effects
How and when is Cycloferon used for cats?
The instructions state that indications for the use of the drug are carnivore distemper, viral enteritis and hepatitis, laryngotracheitis, influenza, and other acute respiratory diseases. Cycloferon is prescribed for rhinotracheitis, panleukopenia, calcivirosis, chlamydia in cats.
The ointment is prescribed in veterinary surgery as an anti-inflammatory and wound-healing agent. It is also used in the treatment of demodicosis, after operations, for fungal infections of the skin of animals, and neoplasms.
The instructions inform you that Cycloferon solution and tablets combine well with other symptomatic drugs. By combining the medicine with interferon or antibiotics, you can enhance and prolong the effect of the latter.
Cycloferon is administered subcutaneously or intramuscularly to pets. In acute periods of illness, it is prescribed intravenously, in combination with serums, globulins, and interferon.
The dosage of the medicine is prescribed depending on the weight of the animals. Thus, cats up to one kilogram are administered 0.80 ml of the drug, two-kilogram pets - 0.4 ml per kilogram. Weight from 2 to 5 kg - 0.20 ml/kg, from 6-12 kg - 0.15 ml/kg, over 12 kg - 0.12 ml/kg.
Pets are not immune to viral attacks. To cope with pathology, by analogy with humans, veterinarians prescribe antiviral drugs to animals. Cycloferon is considered one of the popular and effective medicines. This medication is equally suitable for cats as it is for people. The only difference is in the dosage and treatment regimen.
"Cycloferon" for cats
Treatment of cats
After clarifying the question of the dosage of cycloferon injections for cats, it becomes necessary to study the list of diseases for the treatment of which this drug is recommended. The medication accelerates the regeneration of damaged tissues and mucous membranes, fights viruses, and has a positive effect on the metabolism of the pet.
This drug is prescribed to cats with the progression of the following diseases:
- feline distemper;
- viral enteritis;
- hepatitis;
- laryngotracheitis (inflammatory disease of the nasopharynx);
- calicivirus (damage to mucous membranes);
- papillomatosis (development of benign tumors);
- acute respiratory diseases;
- chlamydia;
- flu.
The immunomodulator Cycloferon for cats with cystitis is also recommended as a remedy. It is advisable to administer injections to eliminate serious viral diseases. When used together with antibacterial therapy, the drug has an enhanced effect. Tablets are also prescribed for the treatment of viral diseases.
The ointment is recommended as an anti-inflammatory and wound healing agent. If fungus or other skin lesions occur, it is recommended to use liquid ointment. The ointment is used to restore the skin of an animal after surgery.
General information about interferons
The mammalian body has an antiviral defense system. The main participants in this defense are interferons - natural proteins that are produced as a response to infection. They help the body cope with the virus as quickly as possible.
If the protective barrier is weakened, the number of interferons produced decreases, and the immune response leaves much to be desired. To support the body, scientists have developed medications based on artificial interferons.
"Cycloferon" is an effective drug for the treatment of viral infections
Interferon is a healing protein molecule that provides antiviral protection. Its inherent nonspecific activity helps to influence all infectious agents in general, not only a specific pathogen.
Interferons are universal guardians that act long before the awakening of other parts of the immune system.
The mechanism of interferon work
The body produces a protective protein after the penetration of pathogenic bacteria, viruses and cancer cells. Man-made interferon inducers are capable of artificially stimulating their production.
The principle of action of interferons
Properties of interferons
In addition to directly affecting infected cells, these molecules perform a number of important functions:
- They excite cellular enzymes that cause disruptions in the production of viral molecules.
- Protect the body from the formation of malignant and benign formations.
- Controls inflammatory reactions.
- They initiate the cleavage of RNA in cells - acids responsible for the movement of infectious agents to other structural units.
- Promote the production of p53 protein, which causes the destruction of damaged cells.
Interferons suppress the proliferation of pathogenic bacteria
By their nature, interferons are aggressive. They affect both harmful foreign structures and ordinary cells.
According to doctors, when interferons enter the body, the immune system is activated within 4 hours.
Features of the use of Cycloferon
A popular domestically produced antiviral agent. It was registered in 1995. Stimulates resistance to various infectious agents. The main active component is an element that enhances the production of interferon in the body. A specific feature of this medication is its wide range of pharmacological effects.
The medicine in tablets and solutions is prescribed for diagnosing the following diseases in pets:
- plague;
- hepatitis;
- enteritis;
- papillomatosis;
- chlamydia;
- laryngotracheitis;
- calcivirosis;
- acute respiratory infections;
- rhinochlameids;
- flu.
Calcivirus in cats
The ointment is prescribed as a wound-healing and anti-inflammatory agent after surgery, during the formation of neoplasms, fungal infections of the skin and for the treatment of demodicosis.
Interferon ointment is a powerful anti-inflammatory agent
Are there any side effects or contraindications?
Cycloferon in any form is completely prohibited if you are intolerant to the components of the drug. Tablets should not be given to an animal with pathologies of the digestive system in the acute stage or with impaired liver function (the latter contraindication also applies to injection solutions). As for side effects, the following are possible:
- when using tablets and solutions: short-term weakness;
- nausea;
- diarrhea;
- burning at the site of application;
Side effects from Cycloferon are usually mild and disappear quickly, so there is no need to discontinue the drug.
